How to Check Cholesterol at Home?

You can check your cholesterol at home using a home test kit. Here's a breakdown of how to do it:

Using a Cholesterol Home Test Kit

Cholesterol home test kits are available for purchase at most pharmacies. They offer a convenient way to check your cholesterol levels without needing to visit a doctor’s office for the test.

Steps for Using a Home Test Kit

Here's a step-by-step guide for how to use a cholesterol home test kit, based on the reference information:

1. Prepare the Lancet: The first step is to use the provided lancet to prick your finger. This will draw a small drop of blood needed for the test.
2. Apply Blood to Test Strip: Carefully place the blood droplet onto the designated area of the test strip provided in the kit. The test strip contains special chemicals that will react with the blood.
3. Wait for Color Change: Allow a few minutes for the chemical reaction to occur. During this time, the chemicals in the test strip will change color.
4. Match with Color Guide: Once the time has elapsed, compare the color of the test strip to the color chart provided with your kit. This chart is designed to correlate the color of the test strip with different cholesterol levels.

Things to Consider

• Accuracy: While these home tests provide an indication of your cholesterol level, they may not be as accurate as a lab test performed by a healthcare professional.
• Following Instructions: Always follow the manufacturer's instructions precisely for best results.
• Consult Your Doctor: If you get a result that concerns you, you should consult with your doctor for confirmation and proper medical advice.

Example

Here's an example of how using a test kit works, by drawing on the provided reference:

• Imagine you prick your finger and get a drop of blood.
• You then place that drop on a special test strip.
• After waiting a couple of minutes, the strip turns a shade of blue.
• When you compare this blue to the color chart, it matches a cholesterol level of 220 mg/dL.
  • This would be considered high, and you should follow up with your doctor.

Quick Recap

Home cholesterol tests provide a convenient method for self-monitoring, but they should not replace professional medical advice.